I am the CEO of Level-Up Life and am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and have LOVED helping struggling students for over 10 years. In this time, I developed a passion and a goal to help students achieve academic success as a natural byproduct of their daily habits. I recognize that many struggles with academics go beyond school. I help students capitalize on the relationship between mental health and academics which is too often overlooked. I surround myself with wonderful experts who can help students from a holistic approach so that parents can relax and breathe easy knowing that their child is developing confidence and independence in their academics as well as improving their quality of life along the way.

I am the Nutrition and Wellness Director at Level-up Life. I have a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science and a master's degree in Nutrition and Functional Medicine. I loved getting my certification as a Culinary Nutrition Expert with the Academy of Culinary Nutrition, where I learned how to cook from a nutrition standpoint as well as adapt recipes and meal plans to meet different dietary needs and preferences. Nutrition and physical activity play an important role in our mental and emotional health, as well as our ability to not only be functional and productive in our lives, but also to thrive beyond what we expected we were capable of doing. I am passionate about implementing a supportive nutrition and wellness program for families at Level-up Life. I love this program that adds value to and supplements the amazing programs already in place, giving the clients to have a well-rounded and balanced experience that touches on all of the factors that can contribute to academic challenges.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

I hold a BA in Children's Learning and Development, an MS in Child and Adolescent Dev. Psych, an MEd in Instructional Design and Online Learning. I am currently completing a EdD in Learning and Teaching in Social contexts. I am in the process of conducting research in the space of Animal Assisted Education. I am conversationally fluent in ASL, and have experience working with people of varying needs as well people of various cultures. I’ve worked professionally as an educational consultant, teacher, and curriculum reviewer. I am passionate about helping learners achieve their highest personal potential academically while maintaining and honoring all parts of their lives. It’s my belief that every child deserves an equitable educational experience that cultivates their curiosity and helps to develop a lifetime love of learning. I bring this core value to my roles at Level-up Life as the Academic Director and Student Advocacy Services.

When not working or writing, I enjoy spending time with daughter, family and friends. I also enjoy spending time in nature, playing guitar, reading, riding horses, anything to do with any animal, small trips, roadside attractions, listening to music, and being of service to others.

SCHOOL SAFETY PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Scott’s career spans over two decades of working directly with school aged youth and their families in both the public and private sectors. While his heart is rooted in direct care, Scott has also had the opportunity to develop key programs and systems at the state and local levels specific to increasing protective factors for at-risk students and improving school safety. He is a member of Utah’s Education Advisory Board to the State Security Chief and actively works with Utah’s legislators as a behavioral health content expert. Scott holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from UVU and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Utah. In his free time Scott enjoys adventures of all types and can rarely be found.

ACADEMIC & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING COACH

I am passionate about family, education, and relationships! I was raised in Massachusetts, went to high school in Colorado, lived in Australia after graduation, and currently live in Utah where I have an amazing wife and three awesome kids! I hold a B.A. in English Education and an M.Ed in Educational Leadership. I have been an educator for over 20 years and have had the unique opportunity to work as a paraeducator in a behavior classroom, a reading teacher, an English/Language Arts teacher, a tutor, a coach, and an administrator. As an administrator I have worked at the elementary, junior high, and high school levels. I connect well with any age student from any background and can adapt to meet the needs of nearly any age group. I believe respect and integrity are key components to finding success and I am convinced that ALL students can learn at higher levels. 

ACADEMIC & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING COACH

My name is Jackson Smith, and I am currently completing my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Neuroscience at Utah Valley University, where I expect to graduate this spring. After completing my undergraduate studies, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Having moved frequently throughout my life, I’ve developed a strong sense of adaptability, which allows me to meet each client where they are and respond flexibly to their individual needs. I take a client-centered, nonjudgmental approach, focusing on building confidence and empowering clients to tackle challenges head-on. I have hands-on experience working in residential treatment settings with teenage boys, where I’ve supported clients who were often resistant to coaching and academics. Through this work, I’ve developed the ability to build meaningful relationships that foster trust and lasting change. I work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds and am committed to helping each person build the skills and strategies they need to achieve their goals.

ACADEMIC & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING COACH

I have a B.S. in Sociology with a minor in Social Work. My background lies in peer mentoring and engagement, and from that I have brought an ability to help foster and build relationships. I have worked with a range of age groups, all with varying degrees of needs and support levels. Stepping into my role as an Executive Dysfunction Coach, my goal is to help clients with organization, task initiation, and planning. While still refining my methodology as a coach, I bring empathy and lived experience to help work through the frustrations and challenges that come with executive functioning. As a coach, I strive to build relationships and help clients build confidence in their abilities, while fostering a supportive, judgment free environment to explore the best strategies that work for them. 

ACADEMIC & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING COACH

I have over 12 years of experience teaching and tutoring students from seventh grade through college. With a degree in English education and a minor in history, I have a deep love for writing and literature. In addition to teaching, I have served as a mentor and advisor to youth facing a wide range of mental health challenges. Supporting students and empowering them to reach their full potential in all aspects of life has always been my passion.

When I’m not working, I enjoy hiking, paddleboarding, and exploring the outdoors with my two daughters. I also love reading, playing board games and video games, and expressing my creativity through visual art.

ACADEMIC & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING COACH

I hold a BS in psychology and am currently earning my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am passionate about working with those who need extra support during transitional periods in their life. I have over 5 years of experience in outdoor behavioral healthcare, working with teenagers and young adults to build confidence and life skills. I lead with a non-judgemental, client-centered approach. I believe the client is the expert of their own life and has all they need to accomplish their goals within them. This approach allows for collaborative exploration and discovery that leads to achievement and sustained success.

COO & ACADEMIC & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING COACH

I have several years of experience teaching elementary students in both public and Title I schools, holding a B.S. in Elementary Education with specialized training in supporting English Language Learners and developing executive functioning skills. In the classroom, I supported students facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression, using strategies to foster both academic and emotional growth. My coaching style is supportive, engaging, and positive, with a strong focus on building trusting relationships. I’m passionate about empowering students to take ownership of their growth and feel confident using the executive functioning skills they develop. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my energetic poodle, Nori, and my family. I also love being outdoors and exploring creative hobbies like painting, drawing, and embroidery.

ACADEMIC & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING COACH

Hi, I’m Josh. I was born and raised in Utah and am married to an incredible wife. I’m currently completing my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Utah Valley University and will graduate this December. I have three years of experience working in residential treatment and a strong background in facilitating recovery groups.
I come from a big family and value meaningful, authentic relationships. Outside of work, I enjoy playing lacrosse, going to the gym, fishing, and embracing spontaneous adventures. More than anything, I enjoy connecting with people and hearing about their real, lived experiences.

ACADEMIC & EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING COACH

Ayleen has her B.S. in Psychology from Utah Valley University. She is passionate about supporting underserved populations and seeks to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Her focus is on trauma/PTSD, social dynamics, and ethnic identity development. She practices a humanistic approach while using empirically backed solutions to push clients to achieve their goals. She has worked with a plethora of demographics in group therapy settings from children, teens, and adults! Ayleen enjoys some hobbies in her downtime such as playing badminton, reading, and cycling.